Hunting is undeniably a thrilling and enjoyable activity. It’s an activity that sends hunters into the wild each year to get that prize kill. However, even though hunting is a fun activity, it’s very dangerous even to experienced hunters. Being armed with safety precautions ensures that you hunt safely and bring home your prize kill safely. Remember, anything can happen in the wild; knowing what you should and what you shouldn’t do is very important. Here are 10 safety tips that you should pay keen attention to.
1. Let someone know that you’re going on a hunting trip, be it a friend or a relative. Inform them where you’ll be hunting, the time you intend to leave and the time they should expect you back. Don’t leave any details. This way, if anything happens or you’re late, they’ll know what to do.
2. Take a friend with you. Hunting with a friend not only makes the activity more fun, it’s also safer. If anything happens, a combined effort will be able to handle any situation better.
3. Bring a communications device, be it a cell phone or a radio call. For any emergencies, you’ll be able to call for help.
4. Bring a GPS or a map. Getting lost in the wild may be a traumatizing and scary experience. It’s also risky because you may end up wandering off to dangerous areas. Bring a navigation device to avoid all this.
5. Check the weather. If it looks bad, consider postponing the activity.
6. Don’t pull the trigger unless you’re sure that it’s an animal you’re hitting. Many accidents occur in the wild, take care so that you don’t shoot another hunter.
7. Carry a well-stocked first aid kit. In case of any injuries or snake bites, you’ll be able to attend to the situation without any worries.
8. Ensure that your hunting equipment works before leaving for the hunt. A threat may emerge at any time, you don’t want the gun to jam on you.
9. Bring a whistle along. This low-tech item is capable of saving your life. If you’re trapped and you can’t shout, you can call rescuers or your fellow hunters.
10. Don’t go hunting while drunk. Being drunk is risky and it can cloud your judgment. Also, if you come face to face with danger, you may not be able to run. Ensure that you are sober.
By following the above hunting safety tips, you will have a fun experience and ensure your safety and that of your fellow hunters. Check our next safety article about offensive and defensive driving.